Arts trail ready to open up again

Above: Wendy Bailye holding a felt-making woorkshop at her Yugar studio.

Samford and Surrounds Arts Trail and Open Studios is back for its 11th year showcasing the region's artists and artisans.

From Samford to Dayboro and Clear Mountain to Cashmere, the Trails will open every weekend for four weeks, from May 31 to June 22 inclusive.

The Trails are designed around wonderful scenery, cafes, restaurants and, of course, the skill and creativity of local artists.

It is presented by Creative Samford, a not-for-profit, volunteer-run and artist-led organisation delivering arts programming and events.

This year will include potters, mixed media, water colour, traditional oils, pastel and acrylic artists, ceramicists, jewellery, timber and textile artists.

In total, more than 50 artists across 26 studios are involved. With three galleries and collectives, the number of artists on display tops 140.

Wendy Bailye has an arts practice in Yugar and runs online classes in feltmaking and creativity to an international client base. She also tutors in person.

“I love having visitors as they can see the process of creating felt and also see and feel the finished product which is fascinating," Wendy said.

"The Trails is so important to our region. It brings so many visitors to the studios and offers opportunities to so many of local artists and the community.

“We all love the opportunity to showcase our work and talk to people about our art practice.

“To be able to make a beautiful display, talk to visitors ... is a highlight each year".

Artists also offer workshops for visitors to learn a new technique or skill across the four weeks, including on weekdays.

Samford & Surrounds Arts Trail & Open Studios is supported by Bendigo Bank Samford, Kwik Kopy Geebung and Moreton Bay City Council.

Studios and art spaces are open every weekend from Saturday, May 31 to Sunday, June 22 from 10am to 4pm or by appointments.

Visit www.creativesamford.com or email [email protected] for more information.